Math & Science Academy

Are You Up For The MSA Challenge?

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the Director and
an alumnus of the MSA program

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faq's

What is the Mathematics and Science Academy?The Mathematics and Science Academy (MSA) was established by the 79th Texas Legislature in May 2005. It was designed as a commuter program for high school-aged students who are gifted in mathematics and science. Students take classes from UTRGV faculty with regular UTRGV students, but are provided with more supervision and guidance than traditional college students.

How much does it cost to attend the Mathematics and Science Academy?The Academy is funded by UTRGV and from the Foundation School Fund. The Academy will pay for tuition, fees, and books. It will be the student's family responsibility to provide for meals.

Where are the Mathematics and Science Academy students housed?All Academy students will be housed in two rooms, Main 2.112 and Main 2.114.

How safe is the campus?UTRGV is a safe university patrolled by university police. Off limit areas and other age-appropriate rules promote security. The Student Health Center is available for student issues and the nearest hospital is minutes away. Under our Emergency Response System, on-call professionals provide counseling, support, and companionship until parents arrive.

Is transportation to MSA provided?It is the student’s family responsibility to transport their student to and from the Academy. At this time, MSA does not offer transportation to its students; however, the university has partnerships with Valley Metro Transit Services and with Brownsville Metro that allow all UTRGV studetns, including MSA, to ride for free with a student ID card.

What will a typical day be for students of the Mathematics and Science Academy?Academy students will report to campus by 8:30 a.m. will be dismissed at 3:30 p.m. Students will follow their class schedule as would any other UTRGV student. Students will be required to return to the Academy rooms when they are not in class.

Do Academy students have a social life?Some Academy organizations offer numerous leadership and service opportunities, from yearbook and Student Council, to musical and theatrical groups and intramural athletics. The University sponsors dances, game and activity nights, movies, plays, and recreation. Academy studetns are at liberty to participate in many of the UTRGV-sponsored organizations and events.

Is there a dress code?Neither the University nor the Academy imposes dress restrictions. Academy students are however expected to dress appropriate for school. The MSA dress code is located on page 10 of the MSA Code of Conduct.

What happens to students who leave before graduation?Students who leave for academic, behavioral, or personal reasons are eligible to return to their high schools. Most, however, will enroll in a university or a community college, or take correspondence courses before applying to college. College credits earned at MSA remain on their transcripts.

What academic help is available?Free tutorial services are offered to students. Supplement seminars on time management, note-taking, and study skills are also offered. A full-time counselor is on staff who provides confidential assistance with the high school-to-college adjustment.

What are graduation requirements? Students will complete 60 - 68 semester credit hours with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.7. A wide range of elective course options is available. Graduates receive an advanced high school diploma including college credits. The MSA counselor and coordinator provides invaluable assistance with college applications and scholarship procurement.

How do I decide if MSA is right for me?Come visit one of our informational sessions that will take place in the Fall of 2014 and Spring 2015. These will be held in Brownsville in Main 2.112. You can also schedule an appointment by calling 956-882-5742 so that you can make an informed decision.​​​​​​​

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